Senators honor 50th anniversary of James Meredith's "March Against Fear"

The U.S. Senate has passed a resolution authored by U.S. Senators Roger Wicker of Mississippi and Jeanne Shaheen, a Democrat from New Hampshire, commemorating the 50th anniversary of James H. Meredith's "March Against Fear" during the civil rights movement.

"In June 1966, James Meredith did something truly courageous, playing a powerful role in Mississippi's progress during the civil rights era," said Senator Wicker. "Transformative events like the March Against Fear merit the highest recognition. Our nation is better because of fearless individuals like him, who were willing to pioneer change 50 years ago."

"I am pleased the Senate is commemorating the 50th anniversary of James Meredith's March Against Fear and his role as a historic leader in the civil rights movement," Senator Cochran added.

Four years after becoming the first African American to enroll at Ole Miss, Meredith planned a march in June 1966 to challenge the fear that dominated the daily lives of African Americans in southern states.

One mile south of Hernando, he was shot three times by attempted assassin, Aubrey James Norvell.

While Meredith recovered, the march he launched continued to Jackson, resulting in thousands of African Americans registering to vote.

Meredith later returned and finished the march at the Mississippi State Capitol in Jackson.

Approximately 15,000 people joined him at its conclusion, making it the largest civil rights demonstration in the history of the state.

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